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Washington ban on so-called "ex-gay therapy" stalls

The state of Washington is in the process of banning so-called 'gay cure conversion therapy.' This past January the bill was introduced to the Washington State Legislature.

Bill 2451 was passed by huge bipartisan support in the House (94-4), especially after heart-wrenching testimonials by those who suffered the therapies. This was not enough for when it reached the Senate Health Care Committee, headed by Chair Randi Becker.

The Chair was able to keep the bill off the list it would need to be in to reach the floor of the Senate. The bill was ignored and now it is stuck. There is a chance however that Bill 2451 will be passed later this year.

But states such as New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Maryland, Illinois, Virginia and Ohio have proposed a ban on these so-called therapies.

In Massachusetts the bill was introduced July 2013, and it would prohibit any licensed professional in the state from imposing any change in "sexual orientation or gender identity" of those under 18.

New York introduced a similar bill earlier in the year in April.

Later in October Ohio state legislator, Sen. Charleta Tavares, wants to see her state become the next to ban the dangerous practice and has proposed a bill.

Illinois state legislature has been the latest to introduce a ban on so-called "conversion therapy" in February of this year.

Bills are still pending in the states of Maryland, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania.

California's bill is currently on hold, pending an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. And the conversion bill in Virginia was killed by the House.

New Jersey's has been the only one to be upheld by all courts of the state.

These so-called "ex-gay therapies" are the cause of much mental and physical harm. GLAAD's resource, "Unmasking So-Called 'Ex-Gay' Activists" lists the potential risks that "reparative therapy" causes. Those include: depression, anxiety, and self-destructive behavior. Many of these supposed "therapist" have gone far in their exploits creating a sense of shame, humiliation or self-hatred in their "patients." Many who have had to endure these so-called "therapies" have spoken about attempts at suicide.

“This show is downright irresponsible,” said GLAAD President & CEO Sarah Kate Ellis. “No one can change who they love, and, more importantly, no one should have to. By investing in this dangerous programming, TLC is putting countless young LGBT people in harm’s way.”

About GLAAD

GLAAD rewrites the script for LGBT acceptance. As a dynamic media force, GLAAD tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke dialogue that leads to cultural change. GLAAD protects all that has been accomplished and creates a world where everyone can live the life they love.more about GLAAD >>